<h3>In the vines</h3> <p>Noble Hill's bushvine Mataro (also known as Mourvèdre) grows on the foothills of the Simonsberg mountains in deep clay soil. This soil is low-yielding and the vines develop strong, deep root systems as a result. Very little is done to the vines during the growing season, as the bushvine canopies provide ideal natural shading for the bunches. 2021 was a slow, cool, and even-ripening vintage with a moderate yield and fresh, fruitful characteristics.</p> <h3>The wine</h3> <p>Cruxes follows a non-traditional style based on the “nouveau” wines popularized in the Burgundian village of Beaujolais. The whole bunches are placed intact into tank and left under cover of inert gas for a period of 18 days. During this period a partial enzymatic fermentation produces the first 4-5% alcohol and gives the wine a zestful, delicate aroma. Following this carbonic maceration the bunches are gently pressed and naturally fermented. The wine is bottled quickly, without oak contact. This wine has floral aromas offset by complex savoury and earthy notes. Light in colour and on the palette, this wine is a celebration of a new vintage perfect for enjoyment with charcuterie and aged hard cheese after a long day of harvest.</p> <p>Serve chilled. Some sedimentation may occur in bottle.</p>